Where to Park for Jazz Fest
Each spring, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival draws big crowds to the Fair Grounds Race Course; with that influx comes parking challenges.
For most attendees, on-site parking is not an option. The festival offers limited official parking, primarily reserved for select VIP ticket holders. Specifically, spots are only included with pre-purchase of the Big Chief, Grand Marshal, and Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP packages.
A limited number of spaces will be offered for people with disabilities. These will be for sale at the Horseman's Gate on Gentilly Boulevard and will be first-come, first-serve. For the average festival goer, driving to the Fair Grounds is not recommended.
Festival organizers have provided a transportation map to help attendees navigate arrival and departure.
Shuttle Service
To ease parking congestion, festival organizers promote the Jazz Fest Express shuttle as the most efficient way to get to and from the event. The shuttle runs continuously from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. or until after final performances. The festival gates open at 11 a.m. on festival days.
Specifically, the shuttle provides round-trips between four departure points and the Fair Grounds. These include the French Quarter at the Steamboat NATCHEZ Dock, downtown at the Sheraton Hotel, the South Market District at the Hyatt Regency, and City Park near Filmore Avenue. One of the biggest advantages is the drop-off point. Riders are taken directly to the Fair Grounds, avoiding long walks and crowds.
Round trip shuttle tickets can be purchased at the departure points on the days of the festival. A one-way pass will be available at the Fair Grounds when attendees depart. For many, this option is convenient and cost effective.
Neighborhood Parking and Local Lots
While street parking near the Fair Grounds is restricted during Jazz Fest, nearby institutions often step in. Schools, churches, and community centers in surrounding neighborhoods frequently offer paid parking as a way to raise funds. These parking lots are typically within walking distance of the festival grounds. However, availability and cost can vary, so early arrival is necessary to secure a spot.
Street Parking Restrictions
Those hoping to find free street parking may run into difficulties. Residential areas around the Fair Grounds enforce strict parking rules during the festival, with temporary signage, permit-only zones, and increased towing enforcement. Visitors who ignore such restrictions may risk fines or even having their vehicles towed. Even in less restricted areas, spots fill quickly, making this option time-consuming and unreliable.
Using Transit and Other Options
Another strategy is to park farther away from the festival and rely on walking, public transportation, or rideshare services to complete the trip. Areas such as Mid-City, downtown and the Central Business District offer more parking options, including metered spots. From there, attendees can use buses, streetcar lines, or rideshare apps to get closer to the Fair Grounds. Information on public transportation routes is available online. This requires more planning but can help avoid parking congestion closer to the festival. The pick-up zone for ride-share services is visible on the map.
There is also free limited parking for bicycles available near the Gentilly Boulevard and Sauvage Street entrance gates. Attendees are asked not to lock bikes on Fair Grounds fences or private fences.
There are also taxi stands available located at the Stallings Playground on Gentilly Boulevard across from the festival entrance. The second stand is located at Walter "Wolfman" Washington Memorial Park on Esplanade Avenue at Mystery Street.
Planning Ahead
Parking for Jazz Fest requires foresight and patience. With limited official parking and strict neighborhood guidelines, the best approach is to avoid driving directly to the venue. Attendees can take advantage of the official shuttle, using a local parking lot, or combining parking with public transit. Planning ahead can make a difference between a stressful and a smooth experience at Jazz Fest.
